Lion Links: 8/21/17

Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers! Well it’s Solar Eclipse Day, and hopefully you have your glasses ready. We also want to wish Orlando City midfielder Tony Rocha a very happy 24th birthday! Let’s get to the links before the sun goes into hiding.

Kreis Calls Playoff Chances “Slim”

Many thought that Orlando CIty’s match on Saturday was a must win. Despite a strong showing from the Lions, they only managed a draw. Head Coach Jason Kreis expressed his frustration with the result, and admitted that the Lions’ playoff chances are now slim. He emphasized that despite the odds being against them, he likes where Orlando City is heading as the club builds towards the future. Of course, that’s small comfort for supporters this season.

Will Johnson Out Two to Four Weeks

Will Johnson has been a leader, a workhorse, and a vital part of Orlando City’s efforts ever since he got to town. Unfortunately, he sustained an ankle sprain during the match against the Columbus Crew and will be out two to four weeks. This is another blow to a squad that had already lost Jonathan Spector, who anchored the back line. Thankfully, Orlando City recently bolstered the midfield with the acquisition of Yoshimar Yotún and Dillon Powers. Hopefully, it will be two weeks and not four weeks without one of Orlando City’s leaders.

Sky Blue FC’s Kerr Sets a Record

Sky Blue FC were down 3-0 to the Seattle Reign at halftime. Then Sam Kerr became the first NWSL player to score four goals in one game. Actually, she scored four goals in one half! Sky Blue went on to win the match 5-4 and I think we can all agree that we’re glad Kerr didn’t pull any such feat the last time she played the Pride. Congrats on the record, Kerr.

Barcelona Honors Victims and Chases Coutinho

Over the last week, Spain was subjected to a series of terrorist attacks, including one in Barcelona. Barcelona FC paid tribute to the victims of the attacks by wearing a unique kit during its match on Sunday. Our thoughts go out to all those affected by the attacks.

In other news, Barcelona is expected to put in a fourth offer to Liverpool in order to sign Philippe Coutinho. Liverpool has rejected three offers so far, and the next is expected to be near 130 million pounds. Will that be enough for Jurgen Klopp to finally let the Brazilian transfer? I guess we’ll find out soon.

Free Kicks

• Christian Pulisic scored a goal and provided an assist during Borussia Dortmund’s opening match against Wolfsburg. In case you haven’t noticed, the young American is pretty good.
• Zlatan Ibrahimovic is expected to sign a new contract with Manchester United, despite interest from the L.A. Galaxy. The news also puts the ever present, wholly laughable rumors he’d make it to Orlando to rest.
• Hamburg SV forward Nicolai Mueller ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee while celebrating a goal. It just goes to show that pirouettes can be pretty dangerous.
• Here are your English Premier League results and standings following the weekend’s matches.
• People born today (other than Tony Rocha) include runner Usain Bolt, actress Hayden Panettiere, Polish footballer Robert Lewandowski, Wilt Chamberlain (1936-1999), country singer Kenny Rogers, actress Kim Cattrall, and comedian Bo Burnham.

That’s going to do it for today’s links, and remember don’t look directly at the eclipse. Getting blinded will make it very tough to watch Orlando City matches. Also, please make sure you have your pets inside.